A solemn memorial Mass marked the fifth anniversary of the death of Bishop John Hsane Hgyi on July 22 at St. Peter’s Cathedral, as the Diocese of Pathein gathered to remember a shepherd who served faithfully until his final breath.

Bishop Maurice Nyunt Wai of Mawlamyine Diocese presided over the 6:00 AM service, attended by 17 priests, religious brothers and sisters, catechists, and faithful from across the diocese.

Bishop John Hsane Hgyi, who shepherded the Pathein Diocese from 2003 until his death on July 22, 2021, succumbed to COVID-19 at precisely 6:00 AM five years ago. He was widely remembered for his unwavering dedication, working tirelessly for his mission until the very end. He founded the OSC Pathein online ministry, which continues to serve the faithful today.

Homily: Finding the Living God Amid Loss

In his homily, Bishop Maurice Nyunt Wai reflected on the legacy of Bishop John, quoting a phrase the late bishop often repeated: “There is no such thing as coincidence; everything happens according to God’s plan.”

“Today, as we gather for this anniversary, I believe it is also part of God’s plan that we are here,” Bishop Maurice said.

Drawing from the Gospel account of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, Bishop Maurice reminded the faithful that grief can obscure our vision. “Mary was searching for a dead Jesus,” he said. “As long as we search for a dead God—one who we think cannot act, who we think is silent amid injustice—we will not find the living God who is always beside us.”

He encouraged the congregation to move beyond blaming others for their loss. “Instead of asking who took away our bishop, let us seek to see God’s plan in this,” he said. “Instead of staying stuck in the pages of sorrow, let us turn the pages of life and move forward.”

A Lesson in Resilience

Bishop Maurice shared a Japanese proverb: “Whether you walk crying or laughing, life is the same. When things get hard, keep smiling.” He recalled Bishop John’s own words: “It is more important to have the strength to endure than the ability to do.”

“Life has both sweet and bitter pages,” Bishop Maurice said. “If we remain on the sorrowful pages, we will never move forward. We must continue turning the pages until we discover the joyful ones.”

He concluded by urging the faithful to see God’s plan in every situation. “If we seek God’s plan in every event, we will be able to face every loss with a smile. There are no coincidences—only God’s plan.”

The memorial Mass concluded with prayers of thanksgiving for Bishop John’s 18 years of faithful service and a renewed commitment to carry forward his legacy of faith, resilience, and dedication.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service